NAGHAM KARAJEH

Gaza- The Palestinian Girls’ Club aims to promote women’s economic empowerment by providing vocational training courses for women. Founded in 2009, has provided support to 140 women and girls across the Gaza Strip.

Women discover their talents by taking courses

Doaa Al-Bayed, board member of the club, says the club works to create opportunities for women so that they can stand on their own feet. “Poverty and unemployment are challenges faced by women. Women discover their talents by taking the courses of the club.”

The club has provided many vocational training courses such as sewing, decoration and graphics. “We provide courses according to the needs of the market. Each course lasts three months. All of our team members are women so patriarchal families allow their children to take our courses,” said Doaa Al Bayed.

The club was also affected by the Covid-19 pandemic due to lockdowns and restrictions but the club kept working to provide job opportunities for women.

‘I become more confident’

Catherine Baalousha, one of the women attending one of the courses provided by the club, was deprived of her right to education by her family. “I discovered my talents after attending the course. I become more confident thanks to the course.”

‘I overcame social challenges’

Tasneem Abu Halima, who studied agricultural engineering at university, looked for a job; however, she could not find one. Then, she decided to attend the sewing and fashion design course of the club according to the needs of the market. “After attending the course, I overcame social challenges and objected to the restrictions imposed on me.”

Tasneem Abu Halima used to work in plant nurseries. “I could work in plant nurseries only in winter. I could not earn a living in other seasons. I decided to attend the course so that I could find a job opportunity. I am determined to improve my financial condition and earn a living for my family.”